Christmas traditions in our country are distinguished from others, due to their pre-Hispanic component, which arises from the fusion of two great cultures: the indigenous and the Spanish. There is a great religious influence in each of its elements, which has evolved into events that promote family unity, especially on Christmas Eve and Christmas. Mexican culture stands out in traditions and customs, based on values such as solidarity, generosity, respect, commitment, work and family unity. That is why on these dates families and friends come together and enjoy the celebrations that begin in mid-December and end in early February. Below, we share some of the most representative traditions that are carried out in the country:
We begin with the traditional Posadas, which begin 9 days before Christmas Eve. These festivities among friends and family mainly include the following elements:
*The Procession: represents the journey that the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph made to Bethlehem looking for a lodging or inn (hence the name Posadas) to await the birth of the baby Jesus. During this walk, candles are lit and Christmas carols are sung.
*El Ponche: It is a delicious and comforting tradition to give Ponche to guests. This drink is prepared with seasonal fruits such as guava, tejocote, plum, sweetened with sugar cane, piloncillo and cinnamon. Some people add a little alcohol to the drink, which is known as adding a "piquete."
*Piñatas: they are the element that gives more color and fun to the posadas. They can be made of paper or clay and are decorated with many colors. The piñatas, which represent sins, are broken by hitting them with a stick while blindfolded and when they break, fruits, gifts and sweets fall out that everyone rushes to pick up.
*The Bonuses: at the end of the posada, small bags filled with cookies, peanuts, sugar canes, fruit and various sweets are given, a good gift for guests to take home.
Pastorelas are a tradition that has been passed from generation to generation. It is usually held in schools, where students act out skits about the birth of Jesus.
In Mexico, in addition to the Christmas tree and decorations, families usually place a Nativity scene in their homes, which represents the scene of the arrival of the baby Jesus. In it you can see the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, as well as the Three Wise Men and some shepherds and farm animals. The figure of the Child Jesus is placed until December 25. Over time, an artisanal skill has been developed in the country to make them from various types of materials and all sizes.
Christmas Eve and Christmas
Christmas is full of customs and traditions that strengthen family ties, creating so many memories shared since childhood. In Mexico, it is a symbol of warmth of home and family unity. The celebration begins with Christmas Eve dinner. *Typical dishes: Families prepare dishes such as Romeritos, Cod a la Vizcaína, Turkey or turkey, Lomo in adobo, among others, which are generally accompanied with apple salad and drinks such as cider. Which ensures a dinner of various courses and diverse flavors that are missed during the rest of the year. *Desserts: to sweeten the holidays, the classic Buñuelos, made with a fried flour dough covered in sugar, which as a special touch, are presented in snowflake shapes, they are delicious! *Rockets and flares: as part of the night some people usually light flares and fireworks, which becomes a spectacle that young and old alike admire.
Another date that is celebrated is January 6, the day when the Three Wise Men arrive to give gifts to the children, who days before have prepared their letters with their wishes. On this day, families and friends gather to break and share the traditional Rosca de Reyes, which is a bread decorated with ate, candied fruits such as figs or oranges, and shell tapas. Inside the Rosca there are some dolls that symbolize the Child Jesus and if when you cut your slice it comes with one, you have to give tamales on February 2, Calendar Day.
Anyway, this month was made to be surrounded by the people we love most and sharing with them is the best gift that life can give us.
Happy Holidays!
Travel, culture and traditions in Mexico City.
